It creeps in when we least expect it.
Our lives are tainted with it from birth, because of sin.
It is so common, it’s become entertainment and even a holiday.
But fear is nothing to joke about.
Nor is it something to ignore.
Fear is often an underlying motivation, for a long list of actions.
It pushes us quietly from within.
It couches itself as “being cautious” while lacking the truth of wisdom.
It disguises itself inside of anger or pride.
When motivated by fear, people can choose death over life.
The scriptures tell us about some who believed, but were afraid.
John 12:42 NKJV — Nevertheless even among the rulers many believed in Him, but because of the Pharisees they did not confess Him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue;
John 12:43 NKJV — for they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.
And through this fear, their love was established.
They loved the praises of men more than the praises of God.
Thus we must be on guard against fear of anything, except God.
Luke 12:4 NKJV — “And I say to you, My friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do.
Luke 12:5 NKJV — “But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear Him who, after He has killed, has power to cast into hell; yes, I say to you, fear Him!
Luke 12:8 NKJV — “Also I say to you, whoever confesses Me before men, him the Son of Man also will confess before the angels of God.
For in fearing Him, respecting and revering God we find life.
Psalm 27:1 NKJV — A Psalm of David. The LORD is my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear? The LORD is the strength of my life; Of whom shall I be afraid?
And in this life through Christ we find true love.
1 John 4:18 NKJV — There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love.
Dear Lord Jesus,
Thank You so much for Your Word. What incredible truth and freedom we find there. Please, Lord, help me to be on guard against fear of anything except You. Lord, continue to teach me how to trust You in all things and not to allow fear to be my motivation. Lord, it is so easy to fall into fear. It is so common that I often don’t recognize it. Please help me to be discerning and wise. Lord, please teach me what ways the enemy tries to ensnare with fear and help me avoid them. Lord Jesus, thank You that perfect love casts out fear. Thank You that when I’m afraid I can rest in Your love and trust You for my life, today, tomorrow, and into eternity. Thank You so much for saving me! I love You, Jesus. Amen.
patientlyhopeful 